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Add to CartGlobal Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Type;
Dead, Live, and Tandem.By Axle Position;
Front and Rear.By Position;
Front, Rear, and Interaxle.By Propeller Shaft Type;
Single Piece and Multi-Piece.By Material;
Alloy and Carbon fiber.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market was valued at USD 35,515.22 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 47,051.08 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.1%.
Axles are crucial components in automobiles, responsible for rotating the wheels and supporting the weight of the vehicle. They serve as the central shaft connecting the wheels on either side of the vehicle. Axles come in various types, including front axles, rear axles, and stub axles. Front axles are typically located at the front of the vehicle and are responsible for steering and driving the front wheels. Rear axles are located at the rear of the vehicle and are primarily responsible for driving the rear wheels. Stub axles, on the other hand, are shorter axles that support the wheels but do not provide power transmission.
In passenger cars, it is common to find a combination of live axles and dead axles. A live axle refers to an axle that receives power from the engine and is capable of driving the wheels, while a dead axle is not connected to the engine and serves primarily as a support for the wheels. This configuration allows for efficient power transmission to the wheels while providing stability and support for the vehicle's weight. Additionally, the use of both live and dead axles helps optimize vehicle performance and handling.
The propeller shaft, also known as a cardan shaft, plays a crucial role in transferring torque from the engine to the rear axle or front axle. It connects the transmission system to the axle system, allowing for power to be distributed to the wheels for propulsion. Propeller shafts typically have a tubular construction and can be made in single or multiple-piece configurations, depending on the vehicle's design and requirements. By transferring torque efficiently from the engine to the wheels, propeller shafts contribute to the overall performance and drivability of the vehicle.
Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market Recent Developments
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In April 2024, Dana Incorporated launched an advanced axle and propeller shaft solution for electric trucks, focusing on enhanced torque delivery and energy efficiency for heavy-duty applications.
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In August 2022, GKN Driveline introduced a new propeller shaft system designed for hybrid vehicles, which increases fuel efficiency and reduces overall vehicle weight without compromising performance.
Segment Analysis
Axles are classified into dead, live, and tandem types based on their functionality and arrangement within the vehicle drivetrain. Dead axles are non-powered and primarily provide support to the vehicle's wheels, while live axles are powered and transmit torque to the wheels. Tandem axles consist of two or more axles connected in series to support heavy-duty vehicles and trailers, providing enhanced load-bearing capacity and stability.
Axles are positioned either at the front or rear of the vehicle, with front axles primarily responsible for steering and rear axles for driving the vehicle. Front axles facilitate steering and suspension systems, while rear axles transmit power from the engine to the wheels, enabling propulsion. Interaxle axles are positioned between the front and rear axles, commonly found in multi-axle vehicles such as trucks and buses, to distribute weight and improve vehicle stability.
Automotive axles and propeller shafts are manufactured in single-piece and multi-piece configurations, offering flexibility and customization options to vehicle manufacturers. Single-piece axles and propeller shafts are typically forged or machined from a single metal billet, providing strength and durability. Multi-piece axles and propeller shafts consist of multiple components assembled together, allowing for easier installation and maintenance.
The choice of materials for automotive axles and propeller shafts is critical for achieving the desired balance of strength, weight, and cost-effectiveness. Alloy materials such as steel and aluminum are commonly used for their high strength-to-weight ratio and affordability. Carbon fiber materials are also gaining popularity in the automotive industry due to their exceptional strength and lightweight properties, offering potential benefits in terms of fuel efficiency and performance.
The global automotive axle and propeller shaft market continues to evolve with advancements in vehicle design, materials technology, and manufacturing processes. As vehicle manufacturers strive to enhance performance, efficiency, and safety, the demand for innovative axle and propeller shaft solutions is expected to grow, driving further developments in this dynamic market segment.
Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market has been segmented by Type, Axle Position, Position, Propeller Shaft Type, Material and Geography.
Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market, Segmentation by Type
The Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market has been segmented by Type into Dead, Live and Tandem.
Dead axles are stationary axles that do not rotate and are primarily used in trailers and non-driven axles of vehicles. Live axles, on the other hand, are actively involved in transmitting power from the engine to the wheels, allowing for movement and rotation. These axles are commonly found in rear-wheel-drive vehicles, where they play a crucial role in supporting the weight of the vehicle and transmitting torque to the wheels.
Tandem axles consist of two or more axles arranged in tandem, providing increased load-bearing capacity and stability. They are commonly used in heavy-duty trucks, trailers, and commercial vehicles, where the ability to carry heavy loads and maintain stability is paramount. Tandem axles distribute the weight of the vehicle more evenly across multiple axles, reducing the strain on individual components and enhancing overall performance and safety.
The choice of axle type depends on various factors such as vehicle application, load requirements, and performance specifications. Automotive manufacturers select the appropriate axle type based on factors such as vehicle size, weight distribution, and intended use. For example, passenger cars and light-duty vehicles typically use live axles for their rear-wheel-drive configurations, while heavy-duty trucks and commercial vehicles may employ tandem axles for their increased load-carrying capacity and stability. Overall, the segmentation of the automotive axle and propeller shaft market by type allows for a better understanding of the diverse applications and requirements within the automotive industry, catering to the specific needs of different vehicle segments and markets.
Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market, Segmentation by Axle Position
The Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market has been segmented by Axle Position into Front and Rear.
Front axles are typically located at the front of the vehicle and are responsible for supporting the weight of the front end, as well as transmitting power from the engine to the front wheels in front-wheel drive vehicles. These axles play a crucial role in steering and maneuverability, as they are directly connected to the steering mechanism. As automotive manufacturers continue to prioritize safety, efficiency, and performance, front axles are expected to see steady demand due to their critical role in vehicle dynamics.
Rear axles are positioned at the rear of the vehicle and are responsible for supporting the weight of the rear end, as well as transmitting power from the transmission to the rear wheels in rear-wheel drive vehicles or all-wheel drive vehicles. Rear axles also play a significant role in vehicle stability, traction, and towing capacity. With the increasing popularity of SUVs, pickup trucks, and other larger vehicles, the demand for rear axles is expected to remain strong, driven by the need for robust and reliable drivetrain components capable of handling heavy loads and rough terrain.
Both front and rear axles are essential components of a vehicle's drivetrain system, working in conjunction with propeller shafts to transmit power from the engine to the wheels. Propeller shafts, also known as drive shafts, are responsible for transferring rotational energy from the transmission to the axles, allowing the wheels to turn and propel the vehicle forward. These shafts must be durable, flexible, and precisely balanced to withstand the rigors of daily driving and deliver smooth power transmission. As automotive manufacturers strive to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, there is growing demand for lightweight and efficient propeller shafts made from advanced materials such as carbon fiber or aluminum.
Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market, Segmentation by Position
The Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market has been segmented by Position into Front, Rear and Interaxle.
Front axles are typically found in front-wheel-drive vehicles, where they are responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the front wheels and supporting the vehicle's weight. Rear axles, on the other hand, are commonly used in rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles, providing power to the rear wheels and supporting the rear portion of the vehicle. Interaxle shafts, also known as intermediate shafts or propeller shafts, are used in vehicles with multiple axles to transmit power between different axle assemblies.
Each segment of the automotive axle and propeller shaft market serves specific vehicle configurations and driving requirements. Front axles are essential for front-wheel-drive vehicles, which are popular for their compact design and efficient use of interior space. They play a crucial role in supporting the weight of the vehicle and providing traction to the front wheels during acceleration and cornering. Rear axles, on the other hand, are commonly used in rear-wheel-drive vehicles, which are favored for their performance-oriented driving dynamics and towing capabilities. Rear axles provide power to the rear wheels and help distribute weight evenly for optimal handling and stability.
Interaxle shafts are primarily used in vehicles with multiple axles, such as trucks, buses, and commercial vehicles. These shafts transmit power between the front and rear axle assemblies, ensuring synchronized operation and efficient power distribution across all wheels. In addition to transmitting power, interaxle shafts also accommodate changes in axle position due to suspension movement and road conditions, helping to maintain consistent performance and ride quality. As vehicle manufacturers continue to innovate and introduce new models with diverse drivetrain configurations, the demand for front, rear, and interaxle components in the automotive axle and propeller shaft market is expected to remain robust.
Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market, Segmentation by Propeller Shaft Type
The Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market has been segmented by Propeller Shaft Type into Single piece and Multi-piece.
Single-piece propeller shafts are characterized by their simplicity and efficiency, consisting of a single continuous shaft that connects the transmission to the differential. This design reduces the number of components and potential failure points, resulting in improved reliability and lower maintenance requirements. Single-piece propeller shafts are commonly used in passenger cars, light trucks, and SUVs, where their compact size and straightforward installation make them an ideal choice.
Multi-piece propeller shafts offer flexibility and versatility in design, allowing for longer shaft lengths and greater torque capacity. These shafts consist of multiple interconnected segments joined by universal joints or constant velocity joints, enabling them to accommodate variations in vehicle size and configuration. Multi-piece propeller shafts are often used in heavy-duty trucks, commercial vehicles, and off-road applications, where durability and performance are paramount. Their modular design also facilitates easier servicing and repairs, as individual segments can be replaced without the need to replace the entire shaft.
The choice between single-piece and multi-piece propeller shafts depends on various factors, including vehicle type, intended application, and cost considerations. While single-piece shafts offer simplicity and reliability, multi-piece shafts provide greater flexibility and torque capacity, making them suitable for demanding environments. Automotive manufacturers carefully evaluate these factors to select the most appropriate propeller shaft type for each vehicle model, ensuring optimal performance and durability. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, advancements in materials, manufacturing techniques, and design innovations will further enhance the capabilities of both single-piece and multi-piece propeller shafts, driving continued growth in the global automotive axle & propeller shaft market.
Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market, Segmentation by Material
The Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market has been segmented by Material into Alloy and Carbon fiber.
Alloy materials, such as steel and aluminum, have traditionally been the primary choice for manufacturing axles and propeller shafts due to their high strength and durability. Steel alloys are commonly used in heavy-duty applications, such as commercial trucks and off-road vehicles, where robustness and reliability are paramount. Aluminum alloys, on the other hand, are favored for their lightweight properties, making them ideal for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles where fuel efficiency and agility are key considerations.
There has been a growing trend towards the adoption of carbon fiber materials in automotive applications, including axles and propeller shafts. Carbon fiber offers significant advantages over traditional alloy materials, including superior strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. These properties make carbon fiber an attractive choice for reducing vehicle weight and improving performance, particularly in high-performance and luxury vehicles. Additionally, carbon fiber's inherent stiffness and damping characteristics can help enhance vehicle dynamics and ride comfort.
The use of carbon fiber in automotive axles and propeller shafts also aligns with the industry's shift towards lightweighting and sustainability. By reducing vehicle weight, carbon fiber components contribute to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, supporting automakers' efforts to meet stringent environmental regulations and consumer demand for greener vehicles. Furthermore, advancements in carbon fiber manufacturing technologies have led to cost reductions and increased scalability, making carbon fiber more accessible for mass production in the automotive sector.
the segmentation of the automotive axle and propeller shaft market by material into alloy and carbon fiber reflects the industry's ongoing pursuit of lightweighting and performance optimization. While alloy materials continue to dominate the market, the growing adoption of carbon fiber represents a significant opportunity for innovation and differentiation among automotive manufacturers seeking to enhance the performance, efficiency, and sustainability of their vehicles.
Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2023
Europe stands as the second-largest and well-established market for automotive axle and propeller shafts, poised for stable growth in the foreseeable future. A key driver of this growth is the stringent fuel-economy regulations set forth by regulatory bodies, compelling automotive companies to invest in research and development (R&D) to engineer lightweight solutions for vehicles. This emphasis on fuel efficiency encourages the adoption of advanced axle and propeller shaft technologies designed to reduce vehicle weight while maintaining performance standards. Germany, the UK, and France, as leading markets within Europe, exhibit high demand for vehicles, especially premium models, further fueling the need for innovative axle and propeller shaft solutions.
In Asia Oceania, particularly China, the automotive axle and propeller shaft market is experiencing remarkable growth, primarily driven by the increasing demand for premium vehicles. China has emerged as a major market for premium automotive brands, driven by the rising disposable income levels in the country. Moreover, the majority of major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have made significant investments in China's automotive sector, catering to the growing preference for small and affordable passenger vehicles. With vehicle penetration still lower compared to developed countries, a surge in demand for automotive axles and propeller shafts is anticipated as production levels continue to rise in China.
The global automotive industry faced significant disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, impacting manufacturing operations and supply chains worldwide. The lockdown measures implemented in China, a key hub for automotive parts production, led to supply chain disruptions and shortages of critical components. Countries heavily reliant on automotive manufacturing, such as the UK, France, and Spain, experienced substantial challenges, with many Tier 1 suppliers halting or shutting down production lines. Legal and trade restrictions, including sealed borders, exacerbated the shortage of essential parts, affecting the assembly operations of OEMs in Europe and North America.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the automotive axle and propeller shaft market remain resilient, driven by ongoing investments in R&D, increasing demand for premium vehicles, and the imperative to meet stringent fuel-economy regulations. As the industry navigates through recovery and adaptation, manufacturers are likely to focus on enhancing supply chain resilience, accelerating digital transformation initiatives, and further innovating lightweight solutions to address evolving market dynamics and consumer preferences.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Growth in Production & Sale of Vehicles
- Increase in Adoption of Electric Vehicles
- Surge in Demand for Comfortable & Fuel Efficient Vehicles
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Changing End User Preference - Axles and propeller shafts are crucial components of the vehicle's drivetrain, responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the wheels. With the rising demand from end-users for a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience, manufacturers are increasingly focusing on improving the overall NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) properties of vehicles. This involves designing axles and propeller shafts that minimize the transmission of noise and vibrations generated by the engine or the contact of wheels with the ground. By reducing NVH levels, manufacturers can enhance passenger comfort and satisfaction, leading to a higher perceived value of the vehicle.
To address the demand for improved NVH performance, axles and propeller shafts undergo rigorous testing for NVH characteristics during both the manufacturing and assembly processes. This ensures that the final products meet stringent quality standards and deliver superior structural performance. Advanced technologies in axle and propeller shaft design play a critical role in achieving this goal, allowing manufacturers to develop components that offer optimal NVH properties while maintaining durability and reliability. For premium vehicles where comfort is a top priority, the demand for advanced axles and propeller shafts is particularly pronounced, as these components contribute significantly to reducing vehicle vibrations and enhancing ride comfort for passengers.
Advancements in axle and propeller shaft technologies not only improve passenger comfort but also contribute to vehicle safety and control. By reducing friction coefficients and enhancing traction, these components help maintain stability and control of the vehicle, especially during challenging driving conditions. As automotive manufacturers continue to innovate and invest in research and development, the evolution of axle and propeller shaft technologies will play a crucial role in shaping the future of vehicle performance, comfort, and safety.
Restraints:
- High Initial Investment and Development Costs
- Technological Challenges and Integration Issues
- Regulatory Compliance and Emission Standards
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Volatility in Raw Material Prices - These price fluctuations in raw materials have cascading effects on semi-finished products like castings, forgings, bearings, and other components used in the manufacturing process. Suppliers and manufacturers operating in the automotive industry face challenges as they strive to navigate these volatile market conditions while meeting the demands of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for cost reductions.
OEMs exert pressure on suppliers and manufacturers to reduce prices in response to market dynamics and competitive pressures. This constant pressure to lower costs trickles down the supply chain, impacting pricing strategies and profit margins for companies involved in producing automotive axles and propeller shafts. While some companies may absorb a portion of the increased costs associated with fluctuating raw material prices, others may pass these costs along to OEMs or seek alternative solutions to maintain profitability. Despite these challenges, established Tier I suppliers often have pricing adjustment programs in place with their OE customers to help mitigate the impact of raw material price fluctuations.
The impact of price volatility in the commodity market on the automotive axle and propeller shaft market is expected to be limited. This is due in part to the fact that the price of high-strength steel, a commonly used material in axle and shaft production, falls between that of regular steel and more expensive alternatives like aluminum, fiber composites, and magnesium. Additionally, advancements in manufacturing processes and materials technology may offer opportunities to optimize production costs and enhance efficiency, helping to offset some of the challenges posed by fluctuating raw material prices. Overall, while pricing pressures from OEMs remain a concern, the automotive axle and propeller shaft market is resilient and adaptable to market fluctuations.
Opportunities:
- Growing Demand for Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
- Increasing Adoption of Advanced Lightweight Materials
- Technological Advancements in Axle and Propeller Shaft Design
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Increasing Demand for Aluminum Propeller Shaft - The automotive industry has been increasingly focused on reducing vehicle weight as a means to improve fuel efficiency and reduce overall emissions. This trend has led to the widespread adoption of lightweight materials in vehicle construction, particularly in light-duty vehicles. Materials such as aluminum and high-strength steel offer the advantage of being lighter than traditional materials like iron or standard steel, without compromising on strength and durability. As a result, automakers are incorporating these lightweight materials into various components of vehicles, including the propeller shaft.
There has been a notable shift in the propeller shaft market towards the use of aluminum propeller shafts. Aluminum propeller shafts offer significant weight savings compared to traditional steel shafts, making them an attractive option for vehicle manufacturers looking to reduce overall vehicle weight. Moreover, aluminum propeller shafts are more cost-effective compared to carbon fiber alternatives, making them a practical choice for mass production vehicles. The adoption of aluminum propeller shafts contributes to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, aligning with the industry's sustainability goals.
polymer composites are also gaining traction in the manufacturing of advanced propeller shafts. These lightweight fiber materials offer exceptional strength-to-weight ratios and can be tailored to specific performance requirements. By utilizing polymer composites in propeller shaft construction, automakers can further reduce vehicle weight while enhancing reliability and reducing manufacturing costs. This innovative technology represents a significant advancement in the propeller shaft market, enabling automakers to achieve their objectives of improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions in modern vehicles.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market include:
- ZF Friedrichshafen AG
- GKN PLC
- Dana Incorporated
- American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc.
- Meritor, Inc.
- Showa Corporation
- Hyundai Wia Corporation
- Gestamp
- JTEKT Corporation
- IFA Rotorion Holding GmbH
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Axle Position
- Market Snapshot, By Position
- Market Snapshot, By Propeller Shaft Type
- Market Snapshot, By Material
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Growth in Production & Sale of Vehicles
- Increase in Adoption of Electric Vehicles
- Surge in Demand for Comfortable & Fuel Efficient Vehicles
- Changing End User Preference
- Restraints
- High Initial Investment and Development Costs
- Technological Challenges and Integration Issues
- Regulatory Compliance and Emission Standards
- Volatility in Raw Material Prices
- Opportunities
- Growing Demand for Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
- Increasing Adoption of Advanced Lightweight Materials
- Technological Advancements in Axle and Propeller Shaft Design
- Increasing Demand for Aluminum Propeller Shaft
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Dead
- Live
- Tandem
- Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market, By Axle Position, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Front
- Rear
- Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market, By Position, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Front
- Rear
- Interaxle
- Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market, By Propeller Shaft Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Single piece
- Multi-piece
- Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market, By Material, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Alloy
- Carbon fiber
- Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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North America
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United States
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Canada
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Europe
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Germany
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United Kingdom
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France
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Italy
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Spain
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Nordic
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Benelux
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Rest of Europe
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Asia Pacific
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Japan
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China
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India
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Australia & New Zealand
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South Korea
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ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
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Rest of Asia Pacific
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Middle East & Africa
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GCC
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Israel
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South Africa
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Rest of Middle East & Africa
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Latin America
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Brazil
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Mexico
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Argentina
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Rest of Latin America
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- Global Automotive Axle & Propeller Shaft Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- ZF Friedrichshafen AG
- GKN PLC
- Dana Incorporated
- American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc.
- Meritor, Inc.
- Showa Corporation
- Hyundai Wia Corporation
- Gestamp
- JTEKT Corporation
- IFA Rotorion Holding GmbH
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market